Nebraska Farm Bureau

10/31/2024 | Press release | Archived content

Nebraska Farm Bureau Highlights Key Agriculture Issues in Supporting Deb Fischer

LINCOLN, NEB. - Nebraska farm and ranch families joined Nebraska Farm Bureau in reiterating its support for Republican Party candidate Deb Fischer for U.S. Senate. Nebraska Farm Bureau hosted an event Wed. Oct. 30 where Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue, Nebraska Cattlemen Executive Vice President Laura Field, and Sen. Deb Fischer shared perspectives on key issues affecting Nebraska agriculture.

"Nebraska farmers and ranchers face many challenges, and it is critical that we have leaders who understand the importance of agriculture to our state and who have the vision to help keep current and future generations of farmers and ranchers on the land. Sen Deb Fischer has always been there for agriculture," said Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau president.

Defending agriculture from far-reaching regulations was one of three key issues McHargue specifically outlined during the event.

"Nebraska farmers and ranchers found a strong ally in Sen. Fischer when the EPA sought to impose regulations on on-farm fuel storage that were originally designed for large oil refineries. Additionally, she played a crucial role in the fight against the EPA's efforts to broaden its federal regulatory authority via WOTUS regulations over waterways, ditches, and any locations that retained standing water following significant rainfall," said McHargue.

Farm and ranch families in Nebraska have long advocated for year-round approval of E-15, sought funding to enhance broadband and infrastructure in rural areas, pushed for reforms in the cattle market, aimed to expand international markets, and requested a federal tax code that would reduce rates and safeguard their ability to transfer their farms or ranches to the next generation without the burden of excessive federal tax liabilities.

"Senator Deb Fischer has been a steadfast supporter and continues to champion these initiatives. Additionally, when these families called for a Farm Bill that would ensure the protection of federal crop insurance, establish a program to support the adoption of precision agriculture tools, and update essential programs related to commodities, conservation, trade promotion, and livestock disease protection, Sen. Fischer was there to respond and remains committed to their cause," said McHargue.

The event was held at the Hoegermeyer farm near Herman, Nebraska. Gage Hoegermeyer spoke to thank Sen. Fischer for her work supporting young farmers and ranchers.

"As a young producer, I know Sen. Fischer has spent her time in the Senate working to ensure the next generation of farmers and ranchers can be successful and if given the chance, pass their farm or ranch on to the next generation. In her role as a leader on the Senate Agriculture Committee, Sen. Fischer has championed programs for new and beginning farmers," said Hoegermeyer.

"The range of issues our organization has collaborated on with Sen. Fischer is extensive, and this list barely touches on the full scope of our work together. Senator Deb Fischer possesses a deep understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers, as she experiences these realities firsthand. Her commitment to advocating for their interests is unwavering, and we are confident that she will prioritize the economic well-being of agricultural families both in our state and across the nation in her efforts in Washington, D.C." said McHargue.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots, state-wide organization dedicated to supporting farm and ranch families and working for the benefit of all Nebraskans through a wide variety of educational, service, and advocacy efforts. More than 55,000 families across Nebraska are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve rural and urban prosperity as agriculture is a key fuel to Nebraska's economy. For more information about Nebraska Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit www.nefb.org.